A Flood Watch has been issued by the National Weather Service for most of Northwest Oregon including the Central Coast, which is in effect now through Monday afternoon. Periods of heavy rain may cause ponding in low-lying areas and flooding along small streams. Flooding is also possible along a few rivers and creeks in the Central and South Willamette Valley. Rainfall totals will be around 3 to 6 inches. Rivers of greatest concern include portions of the Willamette south of Salem, the Marys in Benton County, the Luckiamute in Polk and Benton counties, the Pudding in Clackamas and Marion counties, and the Siuslaw, Goshen, and Mohawk in Lane County. A Flood Watch means there is a potential for flooding based on current forecasts. You should monitor later forecasts and be alert for possible Flood Warnings. Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop. Landslides and debris flows are possible during this flood event. People, structures and roads located below steep slopes, in canyons and near the mouths of canyons may be at serious risk from rapidly moving landslides.

Weekend Travel: Heavy rain will cause ponding on the roadways of Northwest Oregon through tonight; vehicles travelling too fast will likely hydroplane and temporarily lose control. For the Cascades, the snow level is above the highway passes but an Avalanche Warning is in effect through this evening.